U.S.-Nepal Alumni Panel Promotes Culinary Youth Entrepreneurship

Kathmandu: A panel discussion on Promoting Culinary-Focused Youth Entrepreneurship brought together experts and alumni to share how U.S. programs are helping young Nepalis turn culinary dreams into thriving businesses.

Public Affairs Chief Mike Harker, BBC MasterChef Santosh Shah, and U.S. program alumnae Kritika Lamsal and Santona Malakar discussed how skills training, digital storytelling, and platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube are enabling youth to showcase Nepali cuisine globally.

The event also featured Navina Gyawali, a visually impaired U.S. alumna whose work in the culinary field continues to inspire many.

Organized under the Alumni Small Grants Program, the exchange highlighted how U.S. alumni across Nepal’s seven provinces are applying their knowledge to foster innovation, mentor youth, and expand entrepreneurial opportunities.

With more than 40 participants, including alumni and aspiring entrepreneurs, the discussion underscored how Nepal-U.S. partnerships are fueling creativity, collaboration, and growth in the culinary sector.